Harry S. Truman High School health/physical-education instructor Suzanne Denny was one of six educators nationwide recognized for teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The honor came from Instructure, a Salt Lake City supplier of education technology.

Instructure recognizes “outstanding U.S. educators working to embrace remote learning, prepare students for the workforce, and support student success and achievement in an evolving education landscape,” according to company literature.

Nominees were evaluated along the following criteria:

• Redefining traditional classroom activities to help students meet academic goals 
• Supporting inclusion and improving achievement for at-risk populations
• Inspiring students, sparking curiosity, and supporting student growth and achievement

Denny’s award cited her responsiveness to the transition to online learning, driven by COVID-19 restrictions in classrooms.

She not only overhauled her own curriculum, she also helped colleagues and students as a tech troubleshooter.

“Suzanne became the go-to person throughout the district for staff and students alike,” her nominating form read. “Colleagues describe her as a shining light through many hardships over the past year, and in the midst of everything else, she introduced a new drivers education program for the district.”

More about Instructure’s recognition of this Harry S. Truman High School teacher is online.